Ofcom launches new guide to mobile phone deals

Ofcom has teamed up with
Consumer Focus and the Communications Consumer Panel to help mobile phone customers save
money on deals.

The trio has published a guide aimed
at helping consumers pick their way through the maze of deals on the market.

The guide provides helpful tips on
what information consumers should know from a provider before buying, such as
information on additional costs, the length of contract, details on upgrades
and network coverage.

It also explains the differences
between pay-as-you-go and contract and advises consumers to use the
Ofcom accredited website BillMonitor to shop around for the best deals.

Other tips include checking out
mobile coverage in the UK
before buying and switching to cheaper online billing. There is also advice on
using mobile phones abroad and how to keep your mobile number when changing
provider.

Ed Richards, Ofcom’s chief executive
said: ‘Ofcom wants to ensure that consumers are getting the best from their
mobile deal. This guide is designed to help consumers make informed decisions
and to get the best from what's on offer in the market today.’

Consumer Focus Chief Executive, Mike
O’Connor said data shows that only one in five of consumers find it easy to
navigate the market, adding: ‘ With more than nine million mobile phone deals
available, it’s hardly surprising.’